In 2015, we took a look at PS Audio’s Sprout digital integrated amplifier and liked what we saw, or rather, what we heard. The company managed to squeeze an awful lot of features into a small package while keeping the unit easy to use. Now some time has passed since the release of the original Sprout, and PS Audio is back with the next-generation Sprout100, which keeps everything great about the original while doubling the power.
The original Sprout maxed out at 50 watts per channel, while the Sprout100 is capable of either 50 watts per channel at 8 ohms or 100 watts per channel at 4 ohms. That is enough power to supply most modern speakers, especially considering the small size that gave both models of the Sprout their names. Like the original, the Sprout100 features a built-in vinyl preamp and can function as a headphone amp.
A more powerful output isn’t the only difference between the Sprout100 and the original. The Wolfson DAC used in the Sprout has been replaced with a Sabre 9016 for increased linearity. This new DAC can handle up to 384 kHz/24-bit PCM or double rate DSD, making it a nice option to hook up to your hi-res music player. We haven’t yet heard the Sprout100 in person, but the original did a great job of avoiding the sterile sound that class D amplification can be known for, and we expect the new model to be similar.
The Sprout100 features a dedicated subwoofer output alongside the standard speaker jacks, as well as RCA analog inputs and outputs. Digital inputs are available for hooking up CD players or hi-res music players, with an optical TOSLINK port joining the coaxial jack found on the original. If you prefer your music with a little extra thump, an optional bass boost is included. Finally, a remote control lets you get a little more hands-off when it comes to controlling the device.
The PS Audio Sprout100 will begin shipping in May, selling directly from the PS Audio factory as well as retailers like Amazon. The price is almost as impressive as the feature list: While the original Sprout sold for $500, the Sprout100 sells for just $100 more at $600. If you’re getting into vinyl collecting and looking to put together a listening setup, the Sprout100 is a relatively affordable option that likely won’t disappoint in the sound department.
Instagram is making its way to yet another screen, and this time, Apple TV is getting a taste of the Reels rabbit hole. The company has launched a dedicated Instagram app for Apple TV, bringing Reels, longer videos, and live shows to the big screen. So, if watching one quick clip on a phone somehow turns into an hour of scrolling, there's now a much larger screen for that.
Instagram brings Reels and more to Apple TV
Audio-Technica, a brand well known for making some of the best studio and professional headphones on the market, has just come out with the ATH-AWX7000, which the company itself claims to be its "finest headphones ever." The new flagship closed-back headphone has debuted at an eye-watering price of $3,799. It combines hand-finished Japanese woodwork with a newly developed 58mm driver.
The earcups are made from Kiso cypress, a prized wood historically used for Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Each housing is finished by hand with traditional Echizen lacquer, which brings out the grain and is expected to darken over time. The frame and sliders are finished in a deep navy kachi-iro shade traditionally associated with samurai.
This post is brought to you in paid partnership with Best Buy.
Technology evolves every day, transforming how we live and work. Our devices are becoming more than tools we use. They are increasingly capable companions that help streamline day-to-day routines and spark creative ideas. If you have been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your tech setup, the Discover Samsung Shopping Event offers an opportunity to explore what connected, AI-powered living can look like.